5 Rising Artists To Watch For in 2018

January 4 2018 by Nicholas Coyne

5 Rising Artists To Watch For in 2018

January 4 2018 by Nicholas Coyne

If the meteoric rise of artists in 2017, like BROCKHAMPTON, Jorja Smith and Rex Orange County proved anything, it proved that all it takes is one track, one wave of momentum to bring an artist to the forefront of the cultural conversation. Today, TIDAL highlights five artists who have the same potential to capture the attention of listeners throughout this upcoming year.

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Nilüfer Yanya

The British singer-songwriter released her debut single on ATO Records, “Baby Luv,” in November 2017, and has garnered widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike. Complimented by her two EP releases, Plant Feed and Small Crimes, Yanya demonstrated versatility by creating rich, vibrant soundscapes and minimalist, introspective ballads. Regardless of the tempo of the music, what is evident is Yanya’s innate ability to communicate her most intimate thoughts in ways both accessible and fiercley intimate.

At only 25 years old, Colombian reggaetonero Feid has already written music for some most talented artists (J Balvin, Juanes, CNCO) in the industry. His debut album, Así Como Suena, released late last year is filled with promising tracks that showcase Feid’s unique musical style and several features including Nacho, Reykon and J Balvin.

British fire-spitter Stefflon Don has been dripping swagu over her most recent tracks including earworms like “Hurtin’ Me” featuring French Montana and “Ding-A-Ling” co-starring Skepta. She also holds it down as the lone woman on “Bum Bum Tam Tam” with MC Fioti, Future, J Balvin and Juan Magan. Crack open her Real Ting Mixtape and you’ll automatically hear that she remains true to her bars. Expect big tingfrom the triumphant singer and MC over the next 365.

Brooklyn-based Yaeji has emerged in the dance music scene after presenting two pristine EPs of concise, catchy rhythms. Yaeji’s producing, which provides fresh takes on the traditional drum and bass patterns of previous decades, is supported by her ethereal cadences and the intimate details. Her standout cut, “raingurl,” features the endearing, but ultimately realistic line of “Mother Russia in my cup/and my glasses fogging up/’oh yeah, hey dog, hey, what’s up?’/'oh yeah, hey dog, hey, what’s up?’ With her sets being packed and sweaty, like any good house show, and a spot waiting at Coachella, Yaeji has an exciting 2018 ahead of her.

The Montreal-based R&B band has welcomed a positive reception to their first two records of fluid, smooth “indie-dance” music. What initially started out as a duo and rotating guest vocalists, like Helena Deland and Gabrielle Shonk, has blossomed into a trio (with vocalist Emma a.k.a. Bernache). Their first two records, Men I Trust and Headroom, created a soundscape mixing Italian disco and French pop. With Emma as the vocal anchor and string of well-received singles, like “I Hope To Be Around,” Men I Trust have established anticipation for their forthcoming record.